CHARLOTTE – The Carolina Panthers announce that nominations are now open for the 2025 Keep Pounding High School Classic presented by Belk, offering high school football teams from North Carolina and South Carolina a unique opportunity to compete at Bank of America Stadium. This year's event will once again feature a double header, and take place on Friday, August 22, with matchups scheduled at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.
The nomination form is now open and closes Monday, February 3. High schools in both North Carolina and South Carolina are encouraged to submit nominations for individual schools or specific Week 1 matchups. To be considered, the nomination form must be completed by an athletic director or head football coach from each respective school.
A selection committee will review nominations and determine the participating schools for each game. Selected schools will be notified by mid-February.
"The Keep Pounding High School Classic celebrates the important role that high school football plays in communities across our region and provides teams, their fans, and the high school football community with the ultimate experience at Bank of America Stadium," said Kristi Coleman, CEO of Tepper Sports & Entertainment and President of the Carolina Panthers. "Together with Belk, we're proud to extend this opportunity to schools and once again provide a memorable event for players, coaches, and fans alike."
This is the first year that the event is being sponsored by Belk as part of their partnership with the Carolina Panthers.
"Playing football in a professional stadium is a unique experience, and Belk is honored to join with the Carolina Panthers in making this a reality for local players, coaches, and their families," said Don Hendricks, CEO of Belk. "This event showcases the outstanding talent and dedication of athletes across the Carolinas while underscoring Belk's commitment to supporting our local communities."
The Keep Pounding High School Classic highlights the Carolina Panthers' ongoing commitment to supporting the growth and development of football played at the grassroots level. In addition to this event, the team will host the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Women's High School Flag Football Championship in May at Bank of America Stadium. Since 2022, the Carolina Panthers have helped grow the sport of women's flag football to nearly 120 competing high school teams and contributed nearly half a million dollars directly to schools in support of programs.
To access the nomination form, visit panthers.com/community/kphc-registration.
